The American Duchess Guide to 18th Century Dressmaking Spotlight + Book Giveaway!

Not long after I started blogging here I came across Lauren Stowell's blog on historical costuming. A long time follower, I was delighted to learn that Lauren, teamed up with Abby Cox, has recently published a book on 18th-century dressmaking.  Let's dive into the book and see what it is all about!

I received a free review copy of this book from the publisher; all opinions are my own, of course.  Read on for a chance to win a signed copy of the new book!

Whether you wish you could time travel to the court of Versailles or the Highlands of Scotland, this comprehensive guide will walk you through how to make and wear your 18th century dream gown. Learn how to make four of the most iconic 18th century silhouettes―the English Gown, Sacque Gown, Italian Gown and Round Gown―using the same hand sewing techniques done by historic dressmakers. From large hoops to full bums, wool petticoats to grand silk gowns, ruffled aprons to big feathered hats, this manual has project patterns and instructions for every level of 18th century sewing enthusiast. With Lauren and Abby’s guidance, you’ll feel as if you just stepped out of an 18th century portrait.

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The American Duchess Guide to 18th Century Dressmaking by Lauren Stowell and Abby Cox.

Inside are four complete projects and much more.  The main projects include The English Gown, 1740s, The Sacque Gown 1760s-1770s, The Italian Gown, 1770s-1790s, and The Round Gown, 1790s. Each section also includes accessories you can make to accompany the dress such as hats, mitts, and wraps. You could fill your closet with endless combinations of gowns, patterns, and accessories with this one book!

There is also an entire section dedicated to sewing historical stitches, which according to the authors, is imperative for the best quality and accuracy of the garment. I am a big fan of hand sewing and embroidery, but for a project as involved as a full gown the prospect of hand sewing seemed a bit intimidating.  After walking through the neatly laid out steps in each chapter, however, I saw the importance of hand sewing in providing strength and flexibility to the garment. And let's face it, creating your own historical dress is a labor of love and you will love it all the more when done by hand.

In my opinion, the intended audience for this book will have a little bit of sewing background, which is exactly the level I work at. I know the basic of stitching and the hand stitching chapter is an invaluable resource on select historic stitching methods.  Something I found important is that everything, down to fabric choice, is explained in the book.  The authors do not just tell you what to use, but why you want to use it.  They have added fun facts throughout the chapters and mini history lessons that put each project in context.

I felt this book was particularly strong because it included pattern pages for each piece. These are hand-drawn patterns that can easily be copied for your project. Like any good craft book, this one is loaded with fantastic photographs and illustrations that guide you through nearly every step of the process. Before diving into a project I was able to fully visualize how the garment would come together just by the detailed steps. And each piece of the project is manageable.  For example, you can create your stomacher in just 7 easy steps! Not bad.
 

I tried my hand at creating a historical gown, well let's just call it historically inspired! 

Where was this book when I needed it! After reading, I immediately saw mistakes made in design (is it a modified Italian Gown?) lack of hand stitches and fabric choice.  My mob cap could be greatly improved by following the 10 step instructions to create an Early 1780s cap on page 149. I would love to try an English Gown. I have to say, this book is encouraging and makes the task accessible. The tone is very friendly as if my friends Lauren and Abby were walking me through each project together. It has left me inspired to try my hand at a more accurate piece. I think I will start with an apron and some 5 loop bows, then I can work my way up! 

Lauren 

Giveaway!

In celebration of the season and historical fashion, please enter a giveaway for the chance to win one signed copy of  The American Duchess Guide to 18th Century Dressmaking.  

How to Enter:

The American Duchess Guide to 18th Century Dressmaking Book Giveaway!

The winner will be announced on Thursday, December 7. Shipment to US addresses.

Authors Lauren and Abby have graciously offered a signed copy of their new book to one lucky winner!

Good luck to all!